The Pistons’ interest in Bledsoe isn’t hard to believe. He’s a slight upgrade over Jackson, who’s playing well this season, and he’s cheaper. But they don’t have the assets or incentive to land him without giving up Jackson. The Suns, conversely, have little reason to absorb the three years, including this one, and $51.1 million left on Jackson’s deal.

Any deal Phoenix makes for Bledsoe should bring back salary-cap relief, prospects and picks. They can take on another bad deal if he means getting an extra sweetener or two, but Jackson and a pick doesn’t qualify.

If there ends up being anything to this framework, it’ll likely include Jackson being rerouted to a third team—an event that can be classified as unlikely at best.